Group 1-winning rider James Innes Jnr was sentenced after it was revealed that five female racing participants had made allegations against him
A Group 1-winning jockey has been handed one of the longest bans in racing history after being found guilty of sexual misconduct by Racing NSW.
James Innes Jnr, 30, enjoyed his biggest success in the saddle when he won the Doncaster Mile on Nettoyer in 2020, his only top level victory from a career tally of more than 300 wins.
He has not ridden since August 30 after stewards in New South Wales, Australia, issued eight charges against him following an investigation conducted by the Racing NSW Integrity Unit.
His licence was suspended pending a hearing and determination of charges, the nature of which was withheld.
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It has now emerged he has been disqualified for a staggering period of 25 years after an Racing NSW inquiry which heard complaints from five female participants against Innes Jnr.
Evidence from the five at a hearing last month, alleged they had been victims of sexual misconduct at a stable and licensed premises.
According to Racenet, Innes Jnr did not appeal the findings or the penalty at the hearing, which was conducted online. Neither Racing NSW nor Innes has made any comment. The sentence effectively puts an end to Innes Jnr’s riding career.
Defence lawyer Wayne Pasterfield, who has previously represented the rider, told News Corp: “He called me about six weeks ago to ask for advice on a case, and I assume it’s the one he has since been charged with.
“I told him not to appear at any inquiry, but I haven’t heard from him since.”
Racenet sources confirmed that Racing NSW had shared details of the case with police but no charges have been laid.
Innes Jnr, from a racing family, was a stalwart of the sport in New South Wales, riding his first winner on the day he made his debut at Sapphire Coast in 2014. He has ridden five winners in the current season.